The Abbe Wolfsheimer Studio

Dedicated March 13, 2015

Abbe Wolfsheimer Stutz | 1938-2014

Abbe Wolfsheimer-Stutz served on numerous local boards, commissions, and charitable organizations and was well-known and respected in social circles. She was an especially strong advocate for the Arts – serving on the board of COMBO (The Combined Arts and Education Council of San Diego County) where she conducted numerous fundraising events for the local arts organization. She also served on the Board of Directors for the Malashock Dance Company since its inception. She was active with the Salk Institute Auxiliary, and was a strong supporter of KPBS. Like her parents, Abbe was charitable and philanthropic – helping to fund the creation of the Valley Center History Museum and often giving generously to worthy Jewish causes locally and nationally. Abbe Wolfsheimer’s support and enthusiasm for Malashock Dance has made a lasting impact – we are honored to dedicate The Abbe Wolfsheimer Studio in her memory.

Throughout her life, Ms. Wolfsheimer Stutz dedicated her civic leadership in many capacities. She served as a San Diego City Councilmember from 1985 – 1993, during which time she also served as Director of the Trolley and Metropolitan Transit Development Board, the Deputy Mayor, and as Commissioner of the Local Agency Formation Commission. She was the Founder and Chair of the San Dieguito River Park Joint Power Authority from 1986 – 1993, and the co-founder of the City of San Diego Human Relations Commission and Housing Trust Fund.

Abbe’s professional experience included service as Deputy City Attorney from 2004 – 2008. She was a member of the San Diego County Bar Ethics Committee, an Arbitrator for the Superior Court of San Diego, and a newspaper columnist and reporter. Abbe authored a number of books including “The Whores of St. Joan,” a political novel, and non-fiction works “Derek’s Legacy” and “It Doesn’t Take a Brain Surgeon…Or Does It.”

Ms. Wolfsheimer Stutz received numerous awards in her career including Environmentalist of the Year Award from the Coalition of Environmental Organizations; Woman of Dedication Award from the Salvation Army; and Human Relations Awards from the City of San Diego and the America Jewish Committee. She was awarded the Star Award from the San Diego Theater Foundation, and was awarded for her support of the La Jolla, Carmel Valley, and Rancho Penasquitos Libraries.

Abbe served as the President of the Board of Directors for the San Diego Ballet and the Women’s Association for the Salk Institute. She was the Director of the USCD School of Medicine Associates, Gaslamp Quarter Theater, Theater and Arts Foundation, and the Girl Scouts Advisory Board. Abbe was the Coordinator of the U.S. Conference of Mayors, and a founding member of the Women’s Bank of California.

Abbe Wolfsheimer Stutz is survived by her loving husband, A. David Stutz, her son, daughter, step-son, and step-daughter. She will be remembered as an active contributor to the civic landscape of San Diego, and for her passionate support of dance and theater. Abbe’s legacy will endure as a passionate and loving supporter of Malashock Dance.

Dedication Wall at Malashock Dance | David Stutz with John Malashock and Molly Puryear